What does ecological restoration entail in the context of mining?

Ecological restoration in the context of mining focuses on re-establishing native ecosystems that may have been disrupted or destroyed due to mining activities. This process involves rehabilitating the land, reintroducing native plant and animal species, and restoring the soil and water quality to create a balanced and functioning ecosystem. The goal is to mitigate the environmental impacts of mining operations and promote biodiversity, ensuring that the landscape can support wildlife and plant life similar to what existed before mining took place.

The other options do not align with the primary objectives of ecological restoration. While developing new mining techniques can contribute to reducing environmental impacts, it does not directly address the need for restoring ecosystems. Ending all mining activities permanently may prevent further damage but does not rehabilitate the existing damaged areas. Establishing mining schools focuses on education and training rather than the active restoration of ecosystems disrupted by mining. Thus, the emphasis on re-establishing native ecosystems best captures the essence of ecological restoration in this context.